Seat Altea Freetrack 2012 Edition 07.12 Owner's manual

5P8012003HH

Inglés 5P8012003HH (07.12) (GT9)

ALTEA FREETRACK

Owner’s manual

ALTEA FREETRACK Inglés (07.12)

SEAT S.A. se preocupa constantemente por mantener todos sus tipos y modelos en un desarrollo continuo. Por ello le rogamos que com-

prenda que, en cualquier momento, puedan producirse modificaciones del vehículo entregado en cuanto a la forma, el equipamiento y

la técnica. Por esta razón, no se puede derivar derecho alguno basándose en los datos, las ilustraciones y descripciones del presente

Manual.

Los textos, las ilustraciones y las normas de este manual se basan en el estado de la información en el momento de la realización de la

impresión. Salvo error u omisión, la información recogida en el presente manual es válida en la fecha de cierre de su edición.

No está permitida la reimpresión, la reproducción o la traducción, total o parcial, sin la autorización escrita de SEAT.

SEAT se reserva expresamente todos los derechos según la ley sobre el “Copyright”. Reservados todos los derechos sobre modificación.

❀

Este papel está fabricado con celulosa blanqueada sin cloro.

Foreword

This Instruction Manual and its corresponding supplements should be read carefully to familiarise yourself

with your vehicle.

Besides the regular care and maintenance of the vehicle, its correct handling will help preserve its value.

For safety reasons, always note the information concerning accessories, modifications and part replace-

ments.

If selling the vehicle, give all of the on-board documentation to the new owner, as it should be kept with the

vehicle.

Table of Contents

Manual structure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Content . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Safety First . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Safe driving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Brief introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Proper sitting position for occupants . . . . . . . . . 10

Pedal area . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

Storing objects . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

Seat belts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

Brief introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

Why wear seat belts? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

Seat belts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

Seat belt tensioners . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

Airbag system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

Brief introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

Front airbags . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

Side airbags* . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

Curtain airbags . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41

Deactivating airbags* . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44

Child safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46

Brief introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46

Child seats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48

Securing child seats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51

Operating Instructions . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55

Cockpit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55

Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55

Instruments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57

Digital instrument panel display . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60

Instrument panel menus* . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67

Warning lamps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76

Steering wheel controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89

General information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89

Audio system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90

Radio navigation system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93

Opening and closing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95

Central locking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95

Keys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101

Radio frequency remote control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102

Anti-theft alarm system* . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104

Rear lid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106

Windows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108

Sliding/tilting sunroof* . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110

Lights and visibility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113

Lights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113

Interior lights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 121

Visibility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123

Windscreen wipers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 124

Rear vision mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 128

Seats and storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 131

The importance of correct seat adjustment . . . . . 131

Head restraints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 132

Front seats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 134

Rear seats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 136

Storage compartment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 138

Ashtrays*, cigarette lighter* and electrical

sockets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 146

First-aid kit, warning triangle, fire extinguisher . 149

Luggage compartment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 150

Air conditioning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 154

Heating . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 154

Climatic* . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 156

2C-Climatronic* . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 159

General notes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 164

Driving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 166

Steering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 166

Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 167

Ignition lock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 168

Starting and stopping the engine . . . . . . . . . . . . 169

Start-Stop function* . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 171

Manual gearbox . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 174

Automatic gearbox* / DSG automatic gearbox* . 175

Handbrake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 180

Parking aid acoustic system* . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 182

Cruise speed* (Cruise control system) . . . . . . . . 183

Practical Tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 187

Intelligent technology . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 187

Brakes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 187

Anti-lock brake and traction control systems M-

ABS (ABS and ASR) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 188

Electronic Stability Control (ESC)* . . . . . . . . . . . . 189

Driving and the environment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 195

Running-in . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 195

Exhaust gas purification system . . . . . . . . . . . . . 196

Economical and environmentally friendly driving 197

Driving abroad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 199

3Table of Contents

Trailer towing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 201

Instructions to follow . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 201

Ball coupling of towing bracket* . . . . . . . . . . . . . 202

Driving tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 202

Fitting a towing bracket* . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 203

Vehicle maintenance and cleaning . . . . . . . . . 205

General notes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 205

Care of the vehicle exterior . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 206

Vehicle interior maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 211

Accessories, replacement of parts and

modifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 217

Accessories and spare parts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 217

Technical modifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 217

Roof aerial* . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 218

Mobile phones and two-way radios . . . . . . . . . . . 218

Checking and refilling levels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 219

Refuelling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 219

Petrol . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 220

Diesel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 221

Working in the engine compartment . . . . . . . . . . 222

Engine oil . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 225

Coolant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 229

Washer fluid and windscreen wiper blades . . . . 231

Brake fluid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 234

Vehicle battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 236

Wheels and tyres . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 239

Wheels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 239

If and when . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 248

Vehicle tools, tyre repair kit and spare wheel . . . 248

Wheel change . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 250

Tyre repair kit (Tyre Mobility System)* . . . . . . . . . 255

Fuses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 258

Bulb change . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 262

Jump-starting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 271

Towing and tow-starting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 274

Technical Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . 277

Description of specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 277

Important information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 277

Information on fuel consumption . . . . . . . . . . . . 279

Towing a trailer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 279

Technical specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 281

Checking fluid levels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 281

Petrol engine 2.0 155 kW (211 PS) Front-

wheel drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 282

Petrol engine 2.0 155 kW (211 PS) All-

wheel drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 283

Diesel engine 1.6 TDI CR 77 kW (105 PS) DPF

with/without Start-Stop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 284

Diesel engine 2.0 TDI CR 103 kW (140 PS) DPF

All-wheel drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 285

Diesel engine 2.0 TDI CR 125 kW (170 PS) DPF

All-wheel drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 286

Dimensions and capacities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 287

Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 289

4 Table of Contents

5Manual structure

Manual structure

What you should know before reading this manual

This manual contains a description of the equipment supplied with the ve-

hicle at the time of press. Some of the equipment hereunder described will

not be available until a later date, or is only available in certain markets.

Because this is a general manual for the ALTEA FREETRACK, some of the

equipment and functions that are described in this manual are not included

in all types or variants of the model or model year; they may vary or be

modified depending on the technical requirements and on the market; this

is in no way deceptive advertising.

The illustrations are intended as a general guide and may vary from the

equipment fitted in your vehicle in some details.

The direction indications (left, right, front, rear) appearing in this manual re-

fer to the normal forward working direction of the vehicle except when oth-

erwise indicated.

The equipment marked with an asterisk** is fitted as standard only in cer-

tain versions, and is only supplied as optional extras for some versions, or

are only offered in certain countries.

All registered marks are indicated with ®. Although the copyright sym-

bol does not appear, it is a copyrighted mark.

The section is continued on the following page.

Marks the end of a section.

WARNING

Texts preceded by this symbol contain information on safety. They warn

you about possible dangers of accident or injury.

®





CAUTION

Texts with this symbol draw your attention to potential sources of damage

to your vehicle.

For the sake of the environment

Texts preceded by this symbol contain relevant information concerning envi-

ronmental protection.

Note

Texts preceded by this symbol contain additional information.



6 Content

Content

This manual is structured to provide the information you need in an organ-

ised way. The content of this Manual is divided into sections which belong

to chapters (e.g. “Air conditioning”). The entire manual is divided into five

large parts which are:

1. Safety First

Information about the vehicle equipment relating to passive safety such as

seat belts, airbags, seats, etc.

2. Operating instructions

Information about the distribution of controls in the driver position of your

vehicle, about the seat adjustment possibilities, about how to create a suit-

able climate in the vehicle interior, etc.

3. Practical Tips

Advice relating to the driving, caring and maintenance of your vehicle and

certain problems you can solve yourself.

4. Technical specifications

Figures, values and the dimensions of your vehicle.

5. Alphabetic index

At the end of this manual there is a detailed alphabetical index, this will

help you to quickly find the information you require.



7Safe driving

Safety First

Safe driving

Brief introduction

Dear SEAT Driver

Safety first!

This chapter contains important information, tips, suggestions and

warnings that you should read and consider for both your own

safety and for your passengers' safety.

WARNING

● This manual contains important information about the operation of

the vehicle, both for the driver and the passengers. The other sections of

the on-board documentation also contain further information that you

should be aware of for your own safety and for the safety of your passen-

gers.

● Ensure that the on-board documentation is kept in the vehicle at all

times. This is especially important when lending or selling the vehicle to

another person.



Safety equipment

The safety equipment is a part of the occupant protection

system and can reduce the risk of injury in the event of acci-

dent.

Never put your safety or the safety of your passengers in danger. In the

event of an accident, the safety equipment may reduce the risk of injury.

The following list includes most of the safety equipment in your SEAT:

● Three-point seat belts

● Belt tension limiters for the front and rear side seats

● Belt tensioners for the front seats

● Belt height adjustment for the front seats

● Front airbags

● Side airbags in the front seat backrests

● Curtain airbags

● Active front head restraints*

● ISOFIX anchorage points for child seats in the rear side seats with the

ISOFIX system

● Height-adjustable front head restraints

● Head restraints with in-use position and non-use position

● Adjustable steering column

The safety equipment mentioned above works together to provide you and

your passengers with the best possible protection in the event of an acci-

dent. However, these safety systems can only be effective if you and your 

Safety First Operating Instructions Practical Tips Technical Specifications

8 Safe driving

passengers are sitting in a correct position and use this equipment proper-

ly.

Therefore, information is provided about why this equipment is so impor-

tant, how it protects you, what you have to consider when using it and how

you and your passengers can achieve the greatest possible benefit from the

safety equipment fitted. This manual includes important warnings that you

and your passengers should note in order to reduce the risk of injury.

Safety is everyone's business!



Before setting off

The driver is always responsible for the safety of the passen-

gers and the safe operation of the vehicle.

For your own safety and the safety of your passengers, always note

the following points before every trip:

– Make sure that the vehicle's lights and turn signals are working

properly.

– Check tyre pressure.

– Ensure that all windows provide a clear and good view of the

surroundings.

– Make sure all luggage is secured ⇒ page 17.

– Make sure that no objects can interfere with the pedals.

– Adjust front seat, head restraint and rear vision mirrors properly

according to your size.

– Ensure that the passengers in the rear seats always have the

head restraints in the in-use position ⇒ page 14

– Instruct passengers to adjust the head restraints according to

their height.

– Protect children with appropriate child seats and properly ap-

plied seat belts ⇒ page 46.

– Assume the correct sitting position. Instruct your passengers al-

so to assume a proper sitting position. ⇒ page 10.

– Fasten your seat belt securely. Instruct your passengers also to

fasten their seat belts properly. ⇒ page 19.



What affects driving safety?

Driving safety is largely determined by your driving style

and the personal behaviour of all vehicle occupants.

As a driver, you are responsible for yourself and your passengers.

When your concentration or driving safety is affected by any cir-

cumstance, you endanger yourself as well as others on the road

⇒

, for this reason:

– Always pay attention to traffic and do not get distracted by pas-

sengers or telephone calls.

– Never drive when your driving ability is impaired (e.g. by medi-

cation, alcohol, drugs).

– Observe traffic laws and speed limits.



9Safe driving

– Always reduce your speed as appropriate for road, traffic and

weather conditions.

– When travelling long distances, take breaks regularly - at least

every two hours.

– If possible, avoid driving when you are tired or stressed.

WARNING

When driving safety is impaired during a trip, the risk of injury and acci-

dents increases.



Safety First Operating Instructions Practical Tips Technical Specifications

10 Safe driving

Proper sitting position for occupants

Correct sitting position for driver

The correct sitting position for the driver is important for

safe and relaxed driving.

Fig. 1 The correct dis-

tance between driver and

steering wheel

Fig. 2 Correct head re-

straint position for driver

For your own safety and to reduce the risk of injury in the event of

an accident, we recommend the following adjustments for the driv-

er:

– Adjust the steering wheel so that there is a distance of at least

25 cm between the steering wheel and the centre of your chest

⇒ Fig. 1.

– Move the driver seat forwards or backwards so that you are able

to press the accelerator, brake and clutch pedals to the floor

with your knees still slightly angled ⇒

.

– Ensure that you can reach the highest point of the steering

wheel.

– Adjust the head restraint so that its upper edge is at the same

level as the top of your head, or as close as possible to the

same level as the top of your head ⇒ Fig. 2.

–

Move the seat backrest to an upright position so that your back

rests completely against it.



11Safe driving

– Fasten your seat belt securely ⇒ page 19.

– Keep both feet in the footwell so that you have the vehicle un-

der control at all times.

Adjustment of the driver seat ⇒ page 131.

WARNING

● An incorrect sitting position of the driver can lead to severe injuries.

● Adjust the driver seat so that there is at least 25 cm distance between

the centre of the chest and the centre of the steering wheel ⇒ Fig. 1. If

you are sitting closer than 25 cm, the airbag system cannot protect you

properly.

● If your physical constitution prevents you from maintaining the mini-

mum distance of 25 cm, contact a specialised workshop. The workshop

will help you decide if special specific modifications are necessary.

● When driving, always hold the steering wheel with both hands on the

outside of the ring at the 9 o'clock and 3 o'clock positions. This reduces

the risk of injury when the driver airbag is triggered.

● Never hold the steering wheel at the 12 o'clock position, or in any

other manner (e.g. in the centre of the steering wheel). In such cases, if

the airbag is triggered, you may sustain injuries to the arms, hands and

head.

● To reduce the risk of injury to the driver during sudden braking ma-

noeuvres or an accident, never drive with the backrest tilted far back! The

airbag system and seat belts can only provide optimal protection when

the backrest is in an upright position and the driver is wearing his or her

seat belt correctly. The further the seat backrests are tilted to the rear,

the greater the risk of injury due to incorrect positioning of the belt web

or to the incorrect sitting position!

● Adjust the head restraint properly to achieve optimal protection.



Correct sitting position for front passenger

The front passenger must sit at least 25 cm away from the

dash panel so that the airbag can provide the greatest pos-

sible protection in the event that it is triggered.

For your own safety and to reduce the risk of injury in the event of

an accident, we recommend the following adjustments for the front

passenger:

– Move the front passenger seat back as far as possible ⇒

.

– Move the seat backrest to an upright position so that your back

rests completely against it.

– Adjust the head restraint so that its upper edge is at the same

level as the top of your head, or as close as possible to the

same level as the top of your head ⇒ page 13.

– Always keep both feet in the footwell in front of the front pas-

senger seat.

– Fasten your seat belt securely ⇒ page 19.

It is possible to deactivate the front passenger airbag in exceptional circum-

stances ⇒ page 26.

Adjusting the front passenger seat ⇒ page 134. 

Safety First Operating Instructions Practical Tips Technical Specifications

12 Safe driving

WARNING

● An incorrect sitting position of the front passenger can lead to severe

injuries.

● Adjust the front passenger seat so that there is at least 25 cm be-

tween your chest and the dash panel. If you are sitting closer than 25 cm,

the airbag system cannot protect you properly.

● If your physical constitution prevents you from maintaining the mini-

mum distance of 25 cm, contact a specialised workshop. The workshop

will help you decide if special specific modifications are necessary.

● Always keep your feet in the footwell when the vehicle is moving;

never rest them on the dash panel, out the window or on the seat. An in-

correct sitting position exposes you to an increased risk of injury in case

of a sudden braking or an accident. If the airbag is triggered, you could

sustain severe injuries due to an incorrect sitting position.

● To reduce the risk of injury to the front passenger in events such as

sudden braking manoeuvres or an accident, never travel with the back-

rest tilted far back! The airbag system and seat belts can only provide op-

timal protection when the backrest is in an upright position and the front

passenger is wearing his or her seat belt properly. The further the seat

backrests are tilted to the rear, the greater the risk of injury due to incor-

rect positioning of the belt web or to the incorrect sitting position!

● Adjust the head restraint correctly in order to achieve maximum pro-

tection.



Correct sitting position for passengers in the rear seats

Passengers in the rear seats must sit up straight, keep their

feet in the footwells, have the head restraints positioned for

use and wear their seat belts properly.

To reduce the risk of injury in the event of a sudden braking ma-

noeuvre or an accident, passengers on the rear seat bench must

consider the following:

– Adjust the head restraint to the correct position ⇒ page 14.

– Always keep both feet in the footwell in front of the rear seat.

– Fasten your seat belt securely ⇒ page 19.

– Use an appropriate child restraint system when you take chil-

dren in the vehicle ⇒ page 46.

WARNING

● If the passengers in the rear seats are not sitting properly, they could

sustain severe injuries.

● Adjust the head restraint correctly in order to achieve maximum pro-

tection.

● Seat belts can only provide optimal protection when seat backrests

are in an upright position and the vehicle occupants are wearing their

seat belts correctly. If passengers In the rear seats are not sitting in an

upright position, the risk of injury due to incorrect positioning of the seat

belt increases.



13Safe driving

Correct adjustment of front seat head restraints

Properly adjusted head restraints are an important part of

passenger protection and can reduce the risk of injuries in

most accident situations.

Fig. 3 Correctly adjusted

head restraint viewed

from the front

Fig. 4 Correctly adjusted

head restraint viewed

from the side

Adjust the head restraint correctly in order to achieve maximum

protection.

– Adjust the head restraint so that its upper edge is at the same

level as the top of your head or as close as possible to the same

level as the top of your head and, at the very least, at eye level

⇒ Fig. 3 and ⇒ Fig. 4.

Adjusting the head restraints ⇒ page 131

WARNING

● Travelling with the head restraints removed or improperly adjusted

increases the risk of severe injuries.

● Incorrectly adjusted head restraints could result in death in the event

of a collision or accident.

● Incorrectly adjusted head restraints also increase the risk of injury

during sudden or unexpected driving or braking manoeuvres.

● The head restraints must always be adjusted according to the height

of the passenger.



Active head restraints*

Vehicle occupants are pressed into their seats during a rear end collision.

The resulting body pressure on the seat backrest activates the active head

restraint* on the front seat, which moves rapidly forwards and upwards at

the same time. This movement reduces the distance between the occu-

pant's head and the head restraint, thus reducing the risk of head injuries

such as brain trauma. 

Safety First Operating Instructions Practical Tips Technical Specifications

14 Safe driving

WARNING

Travelling with the head restraints removed or improperly adjusted in-

creases the risk of severe injuries.

● Incorrectly adjusted head restraints could result in death in the event

of a collision or accident.

● Incorrectly adjusted head restraints also increase the risk of injury

during sudden or unexpected driving or braking manoeuvres.

● The head restraints must always be adjusted according to the height

of the passenger.

Note

The active head restraints* could also be triggered if a vehicle occupant ap-

plies a high level of pressure to the seat backrest (e.g. by “falling” back into

the seat when entering the vehicle) or if pressure is applied to a front seat

head restraint from the rear. This accidental activation is, however, not dan-

gerous, as the active head restraints will return to the original position im-

mediately and are thus once again ready.



Correct adjustment of rear seat head restraints

Properly adjusted head restraints are an important part of

the passenger protection and can reduce the risk of injuries

in most accident situations

Fig. 5 Head restraints in

correct position

Fig. 6 Head restraint po-

sition warning label



15Safe driving

Rear outer seat head restraints

– The rear outer seat head restraints have 3 positions.

– Two positions for use ⇒ Fig. 5. In these positions, the head re-

straints are used normally, protecting passengers along with

the rear seat belts.

– And one position for non-use.

– To fit the head restraints in position for use, pull on the edges

with both hands in the direction of the arrow.

Centre rear head restraint

– The centre head restraint only has two positions, in-use (head

restraint up) and non-use (head restraint down).

WARNING

● Under no circumstances should the rear passengers travel while the

head restraints are in the non-use position. See the warning label loca-

ted on the rear side fixed window ⇒ Fig. 6.

● Do not swap the centre rear head restraint with either of the outer

seat rear head restraints.

● Risk of injury in case of an accident!

CAUTION

Note the instructions on the adjustment of the head restraints ⇒ page 132.



Examples of incorrect sitting positions

An incorrect sitting position can lead to severe injuries to ve-

hicle occupants.

Seat belts can provide optimal protection only when the belt webs

are properly positioned. Incorrect sitting positions substantially re-

duce the protective function of seat belts and increase the risk of

injury due to incorrect seat belt position. As the driver, you are re-

sponsible for all passengers, especially children.

– Never allow anyone to assume an incorrect sitting position in

the vehicle while travelling ⇒

.

The following list contains examples of sitting positions that could be dan-

gerous for all vehicle occupants. The list is not complete, but we would like

to make you aware of this issue.

Therefore, whenever the vehicle is in motion:

● Never stand in the vehicle.

● Never stand on the seats.

● Never kneel on the seats.

● Never tilt your seat backrest far to the rear.

● Never lean against the dash panel.

● Never lie on the rear bench.

● Never sit on the front edge of a seat.

● Never sit sideways.

● Never lean out of a window.

● Never put your feet out of a window.

● Never put your feet on the dash panel.

● Never put your feet on the surface of a seat.

● Do not allow anyone to travel in the footwell. 

Safety First Operating Instructions Practical Tips Technical Specifications

16 Safe driving

● Never travel without wearing the seat belt.

● Do not allow anyone to travel in the luggage compartment.

WARNING

● Any incorrect sitting position increases the risk of severe injuries.

● Sitting in an incorrect position exposes the vehicle occupants to se-

vere injuries if airbags are triggered, by striking a vehicle occupant who

has assumed an incorrect sitting position.

● Before the vehicle moves, assume the proper sitting position and

maintain it throughout the trip. Before every trip, instruct your passen-

gers to sit properly and to stay in this position during the trip ⇒ page 10,

Proper sitting position for occupants.



Pedal area

Pedals

The operation of all pedals must never be impaired by ob-

jects or floor mats.

– Ensure that you can always press the accelerator, brake and

clutch pedals unimpaired to the floor.

– Ensure that the pedals can return unimpaired to their initial po-

sitions.

Use only floor mats which leave the pedal area free and can be securely fas-

tened on the footwell.

If a brake circuit fails, the brake pedal must be pressed down thoroughly in

order to stop the vehicle.

Wearing suitable shoes

Always wear shoes which support your feet properly and give you a good

feeling for the pedals.

WARNING

● Restricting pedal operation can lead to critical situations while driv-

ing.

● Never place objects on the driver footwell. An object could move into

the pedal area and impair pedal operation. In the event of a sudden driv-

ing or braking manoeuvre, you will not be able to operate the brake,

clutch or accelerator pedal. Risk of accident!



Floor mats on the driver side

Only floor mats may be used which can be securely fastened

in the footwell and do not impair operation of the pedals.

– Ensure that the floor mats are securely fastened during the trip

and do not obstruct the pedals ⇒

.

Only use floor mats which leave the pedals clear and which are secured to

prevent them from slipping. You can obtain suitable floor mats from a speci-

alised dealership. Fasteners* for floor mats are fitted in the footwells. 

17Safe driving

WARNING

● If the pedals are obstructed, an accident may occur. Risk of serious

injuries.

● Ensure that the floor mats are always securely attached.

● Never lay or fit floor mats or other floor coverings over the original

floor mats. This would reduce the pedal area and could obstruct the ped-

als. Risk of accident.



Storing objects

Loading the luggage compartment

All luggage and other loose objects must be safely secured

in the luggage compartment.

Unsecured objects which shift back and forth could impair the driv-

ing safety or driving characteristics of the vehicle by shifting the

centre of gravity.

– Distribute the load evenly in the luggage compartment.

– Place heavy objects as far forward as possible in the luggage

compartment.

– Place the heavy objects first.

– Secure heavy objects to the fastening rings ⇒ page 18.

WARNING

● Loose luggage and other objects in the luggage compartment could

cause serious injuries.

● Always stow objects in the luggage compartment and secure them on

the fastening rings.

● Use suitable straps to secure heavy objects.

● During sudden manoeuvres or accidents, loose objects can be thrown

forward, injuring vehicle occupants or passers-by. This increased risk of

injury will be further increased if a loose object is struck by an inflating

airbag. If this happens, objects can be transformed into “missiles”. Risk

of fatal injury.

● Please note that the centre of gravity may shift when transporting

heavy objects; this may affect vehicle handling and lead to an accident.

Therefore, it is essential to adjust your speed and driving style accord-

ingly, to avoid accidents.

● Never exceed the allowed axle weights or allowed maximum weight.

If the allowed axle load or the allowed total weight is exceeded, the driv-

ing characteristics of the vehicle may change, leading to accidents, inju-

ries and damage to the vehicle.

● Never leave your vehicle unattended, especially when the rear lid is

open. Children could climb into the luggage compartment, closing the

door behind them; they will be trapped and run the risk of death.

● Never allow children to play in or around the vehicle. Close and lock

all the doors and rear lid when you leave the vehicle. Before you lock the

vehicle, make sure that there are no adults or children in the vehicle.

● Never transport passengers in the luggage compartment. All vehicle

occupants must have their seat belt fastened ⇒ page 19. 

Safety First Operating Instructions Practical Tips Technical Specifications

18 Safe driving

Note

● Air circulation in the vehicle helps reduce fogging of the windows. Used

air escapes through ventilation slits in the side trim of the luggage compart-

ment. Ensure that the ventilation slits are never covered.

● Straps for securing the load to the fastening rings are commercially

available.



Fastening rings*

There can be four fastening rings in the luggage compart-

ment for fastening luggage and other objects.

– Always use suitable and undamaged straps to secure luggage

and other objects to the fastening rings ⇒

in Loading the lug-

gage compartment on page 17.

– Pull up the fastening rings to attach the straps.

During a collision or an accident, even small and light objects can build up

so much energy that they can cause very severe injuries. The amount of ki-

netic energy depends on the speed of the vehicle and the weight of the ob-

ject. The most significant factor, however, is the speed of the vehicle.

Example: An object weighing 4.5 kg is lying unsecured in the vehicle. Dur-

ing a frontal collision at a speed of 50 km/h (30 mph), this object generates

a force corresponding to 20 times its weight. That means that the effective

weight of the object increases to about 90 kg. You can imagine the severity

of the injuries which might be sustained if this object strikes an occupant as

it flies through the interior of the vehicle. This increased risk of injury will be

further increased if a loose object is struck by an inflating airbag.

WARNING

● If pieces of luggage or other objects are secured to the fastening

rings with inappropriate or damaged retaining cords, injuries could be

sustained in the event of braking manoeuvres or accidents.

● To prevent pieces of luggage or other objects from flying forward, al-

ways use appropriate retaining cords which are secured to the fastening

rings.

● Never secure a child seat on the fastening rings.



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Seat Altea Freetrack 2012 Edition 07.12 Owner's manual

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